What is a meaningful travel experience? This type of travel will push you out of your comfort zone and leave you feeling fulfilled. Recent surveys show that 74% of travellers would like to travel “more meaningfully” on their next holiday. Plus, these types of trips can be enjoyed as a solo traveller and you can experience different cultures in a respectful way.
From hiking a volcano to volunteering in another country, see what meaningful travel experience should be at the top of your bucket list…
Making the most of solo travelling
Travelling on your own can be daunting but it is also extremely rewarding. Going abroad on your own doesn’t mean you have to be the most outgoing. It also doesn’t mean you will spend your whole holiday in your hotel room. Travelling solo is a great way to meet like-minded people and step out of your comfort zone for a different travel experience.
When travelling alone, consider staying in a hostel. Hostels are dormitory-style accommodations, but you can opt for a hostel with a private room or bathroom. These types of stays often have communal areas for you to spend time with fellow travellers at your own pace. Most also have a list of activities available for you to sign onto which is a great way to get you into the action. Plus, because of the communal facilities, hostels are normally cheaper than mainstream hotels.
Let’s look at some meaningful travel experiences you can try…
Have a wild travel experience in Kenya
Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya is the perfect place to get that meaningful travel experience. Here, you will find the Giraffe Centre, a sanctuary that is home to a resident herd of wild Giraffes. Whilst here you can feed the Giraffes and learn more about how you can help these endangered animals. You can also stay nearby and if you’re lucky, you will find the giraffes saying hello at breakfast as they often peek their heads through the windows! This is a unique travel experience but though they are accustomed to guests – it is important to remember that they are still wild animals.
While you’re here, you should visit the Nairobi National Park which is host to a number of species of animals. Take a safari tour to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. You will be taken around in a 4×4 jeep so you can witness everything from a safe environment. Plus, with our free spirit policy if you book the safari prior to booking your trip, you are covered as standard.
Another great way to experience the culture in a meaningful way is to head to the Bomas of Kenya. They aim to preserve and promote the different cultures within Kenya, and you will certainly learn a lot from them. You will get to see the traditional set-up and catch the daily shows where they perform different dances from various ethnic communities.
Learn a new skill in the Italian Dolomites
The Italian Dolomites are a beautiful mountain range in northern Italy and are a recognised UNESCO World Heritage site. The highest peak is the Marmolada which sits at just over 3,300m and if you are feeling adventurous, there are several routes to hike this mountain. There are also many other activities that you can do at the Dolomites so there will be something for everyone. Travelling here is a great way to get out of your comfort zone and get a new travel experience.
The Dolomites are home to the largest network of ski lifts and slopes, so it is the ideal place to learn a new skill. Learn to Ski in this one-of-a-kind location and don’t be afraid – they have courses for everyone. Whether you’re a complete beginner, young or fully grown – it’s never too late to try something new. Plus, in learning this, you will be surrounded by other people all learning the same thing as you so you can get to know like-minded travellers.
For a more relaxed travel experience, the Dolomites host Christmas markets every year. Take a stroll through the local crafts and delicacies and catch some of the local performances. They often have fire-eaters, knights and much more so this is a great way to experience some festive culture.
Volunteer in Costa Rica
You could spend two weeks in Costa Rica doing a mix of volunteering and exploring. Some highlights of this trip include learning Spanish, working with the locals and learning about their customs. One example, volunteering with local schools, will give you an insight into their way of life. It won’t feel like working, it will feel like you have done something meaningful with your time there. You can also add on many optional activities like scuba diving or yoga so there is something for every traveller.
Alternatively, Costa Rica is known for its national parks and wildlife. So, if you want a more adventurous travel experience, you could go rafting down the Pacuare River. We even have a specialist Adventures policy that can cover this. Or try tree camping in the rainforest here. You will stay in a tent suspended from the forest floor but don’t worry, you will have protective gear and a professional nearby just in case. This is the perfect way to have a meaningful experience surrounded by nature.
Sail over to Lake Bled, Slovenia
Head over to Lake Bled for a meaningful travel experience. Lake Bled is a beautiful setting for any traveller, with a castle on a cliff and a church on its own tiny island. Even travelling on your own, there are many different activities to choose from. Take a day trip to ring the Wishing Bell; it is said that ringing it three times will make your wish come true. The Wishing Bell is located at the top of the church in the middle of the lake so you will have the best view of your surroundings. There are nearly 100 steps to the top, but this is a sacred part of Lake Bled’s history, so it is worth the trip.
For a close-up experience, try your hand at paddle-boarding. The lake has dedicated swimming areas so you can go for a paddle or enjoy the views by hiring a paddle board. There are options to have a guided tour of the lake so if you are travelling alone but want some company, this would be an ideal way to explore.
Finally, immerse yourself in nature by visiting the nearby Vintgar Gorge. With many waterfalls and rapids, this is a beautiful place to explore and learn more about Slovenia’s unspoilt landscape. It is possible to rent a bike to explore the area if you want to get around quickly. Alternatively, you can borrow an audio guide or go through a tour group so a local expert will teach you interesting facts about the Gorge.
Experience authentic Japanese culture
In Kyushu, Japan, there are many meaningful travel experiences on offer, whether you’re a solo traveller or in a group. Once here, head to the bustling city of Kumamoto where you can join in with their traditions by crafting your own metal artwork. This activity dates back to when they used to make swords in the 16th century, so it has been around for a while! Learn how to carve your design and engrave it and they will send you the finished piece in a matter of weeks.
For a more adventurous travel experience, follow a guided route through the Kunisaki Peninsula. Along the trail, you will find many traditional temples and stone statues. You will also learn more about Kyushu and get to join in with a cultural Himeshima fox dance. What better way to learn the true character of this place than by diving right into it.
To top off your meaningful trip, take part in a tour of Kumamoto. Spend time learning how to make traditional sweets and drinks. You can also visit a dojo to spend time learning kyudo archery which is an ancient art here. Travelling solo will allow you to step outside of your usual bubble and try something new, so why not start now?
Insure yourself wherever you go
Travelling can be daunting whether you go it alone or with others. At Free Spirit, we can cover you whether you’re an individual, a couple or a family. An annual multi-trip policy will allow you to travel for up to 45 days per trip so you can have many different experiences in the year.